Coincidence or a Sign from the Universe?

One of the first posts I ever wrote on this blog was about how badly I wanted pink hair. A year later it still hasn’t happened. Of course I am still at the same office, with the same restrictions, and while no one has commented on my wrist tattoo I feel like cotton candy hair might be pushing my luck. But I think this tutorial by The Beauty Department might be just the loophole I need. If I only color the tips of my hair I can keep it pulled back at the office and still take baby steps towards my ultimate goal.

Step 1 Highlight the tips of the hair using hair bleach with the correct volume. I lightened the bottom 3 inches of Lauren’s hair, taking it as light as possible without causing any damage. As you can see above, I like to “feather” on the bleach. Painting a jagged line makes it blend better.

Step 2 Fold up your foil and let it process until it reaches a pale blonde. Use the appropriate heat if necessary.

Step 3 Shampoo and lightly condition bleach out of the hair.

Step 4 Blow hair completely dry. If it’s still wet, it will soak up less color.

Step 5 Place the hair on a foil. Imagine the bleached out part being split into 3. You’re going to leave the top 1/3 blonde.

Step 7 Paint the very tips (or bottom 1/3) using the darker version of that color. It should look almost feather like. Be sure to blend. Last, rinse out the color. I highly suggest washing them out one piece at a time and towel drying well so the colors don’t bleed into each other. If they do, you may see a “marbleizing” effect. I love when the colors all swirl together like that, but if you’re looking to keep them more defined, keep them away from each other when they’re wet. I like to finish up by sealing it with a clear gloss. That’s a professional use only product so if you don’t have access to it, you don’t have to do that. Blow dry and…Tah Daaah!!

*Note: Bleaching your hair at home can have varying outcomes. When I bleached my hair in college I ended up with an orange mess and minor chemical burns on my scalp. If you haven’t tried this process before it might be a good idea to consult a professional at least for the bleaching step of this tutorial.

About Julie

My name is Julieanna Bucior, but I go by Julie (unless I'm in trouble). I'm thirty one. I am a bookkeeper by day, rogue fashion designer/crafter/amateur baker by night. I spend most of my time feeling like a kindergartner trapped inside an adult's body. I love reading, hanging out with my crazy cats and being silly. I'm pretty much the girl next door, with a twist.